Rescuers repeat attempt to save sick climber

A sick Australian climber is stuck on Aoraki/Mt Cook, as weather hampers his rescue. Photo / Doug Sherring

Rescuers are hoping to bring a sick climber down from Aoraki/Mt Cook today after bad weather hampered rescue efforts for the past two days.

The Australian climber, aged 34, has been trapped at Kelman Hut, at the head of the Tasman Glacier, since Thursday suffering a suspected collapsed lung.

High winds and rain put a stop to a helicopter rescue yesterday morning, and Department of Conservation (DOC) workers planned to try again from 8am today.

The man, along with 14 others who are also at the hut, was on an instruction course when he became unwell.

DOC ranger Ray Bellringer yesterday said the man was in some pain but it was being controlled with medication.

"He is not in immediate danger, but it is a serious condition," he said.

- NZPA